Richmond Launches New DOT to Combat Rising Pedestrian Fatalities, Invests $30 Million in Safety
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A new Department of Transportation (DOT) was established within the City of Richmond’s Department of Public Works (DPW) in January, responding to a concerning rise in traffic-related pedestrian deaths. The move signals a meaningful commitment to improving street safety and achieving the city’s “Vision Zero” goals.
The DOT will assume primary obligation for the planning,design,maintenance,and delivery of Richmond’s transportation system,according to an proclamation from Mayor Danny Avila.This restructuring aims to streamline operations and bolster the city’s “embedded support system” designed to enhance existing capabilities.
Prioritizing Safety Through Integrated Planning
The new department will focus on combining transportation planning and engineering wiht robust community outreach to improve coordination and ensure projects meet the needs of all residents. According to Boenau, the DOT’s core mission is to “continue and accelerate the planning and design of a highway network that provides safe access for all ages and abilities.”
This initiative is a key component of the city’s “Vision Zero” strategy,a complete plan to eliminate all traffic fatalities and injuries. In 2025, Richmond recorded 15 pedestrian fatalities and 118 pedestrians were disabled due to traffic incidents, according to the “Vision Zero” online control panel. Though, officials point to a positive trend, noting an eight-person reduction in fatalities as 2022.
Factors Contributing to Improved Safety
The recent decline in pedestrian injuries and fatalities is attributed to a multi-faceted approach. A senior official stated that “new traffic calming measures and changes to the built habitat implemented across the city” have played a crucial role. These efforts are complemented by an expanded Security Camera Program, advancements in vehicle fleet technology, and a reduction in overdose deaths – a factor linked to impaired driving.
“Driving while impaired contributes to a significant number of serious crashes,” Boenau emphasized.
$30 million Investment in Street Improvements
Looking ahead, the city is poised to invest $30 million in street improvements over the next several years. This builds upon decades of investment in pedestrian and street safety, including upgrades to traffic signals, the implementation of bus lanes, the creation of protected bike lanes, and prioritizing pedestrian access at intersections.
The planned improvements extend beyond existing initiatives. Boenau outlined a comprehensive agenda that includes the installation of red light cameras, the implementation of ADA (americans with Disabilities Act) compliant traffic stops, the creation of permanent bike lane separations, and detailed planning for speed management, accessibility, improved light poles, mental health screenings, and multi-disciplinary safety assessments.
collaboration with VCU to Enhance Campus Area Safety
Alongside the DOT announcement, the city revealed preliminary locations for new red light cameras and accelerated street safety improvements. A key partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) will focus on enhancing safety in areas surrounding the MCV (Medical College of Virginia) campus, especially along Broad Street and near City Hall.
Future collaborative projects with VCU include the installation of high-visibility crosswalks, ADA-compliant ramps, the development of “shared-use paths” for various modes of transportation, and the expansion of bike lanes and trail connections.
A VCU pedestrian safety investigation recommended the implementation of curb extensions at the intersections of Pine Street with Main Street and Cary Street. The university intends to install ten curb extensions at these locations on its campus in the coming years, according to VCUNews.
These combined efforts represent a significant step towards creating a safer, more accessible, and more efficient transportation system for all residents of richmond.
